Open for business Microsoft gives reference design for Windows Phone, announces new OEMs

Barcelona Today, Microsoft announced a new reference design hardware sample for potential OEMs and ODMs. The move, in conjunction with reduced hardware requirements like front facing keys, will allow new manufacturers to easily jump on board with Windows Phone.
A new site that just launched will allow any potential manufacturer to view and review key component and design details based off of the Qualcomm reference design. The move is certainly bold, as Microsoft is now actively courting all hardware device makers to get on board with Windows Phone. To sweeten the deal, Microsoft has made the OS more universal across hardware, allowing OEMs to recycle their Android phones by simply putting on Windows Phone instead.